Studied Homeopathic Remedies

Human growth hormone

While treating disease is important, there is no question that, if it were possible, most of us would prefer to prevent disease and also improve daily health and well-being. No drug can provide this benefit, but daily exercise and good nutrition will undoubtedly make a positive contribution. Homeopathic therapies have been proposed as well.

Scientific Evaluations of Homeopathic Remedies for Improving General Health and Well-being

Treatment with human growth hormone (HGH) has been investigated as a potential means for improving energy, body composition (ratio of fat to muscle), and overall quality of life, especially in older people. While HGH has not been proven safe and effective for this purpose, a
double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
suggests that a homeopathic (and therefore
safe
) version of growth hormone may offer the same potential benefits.

This 42-day, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of 69 people evaluated the effects of two homeopathic preparations made from purified HGH. One remedy had a potency of 6x + 12c (a dilution of one part in 1,012 plus dilution of one part in 1024). The second remedy had a potency of 6x + 100c + 200c (a dilution of one part in 1,012 plus a dilution of one part in 10,200 plus a dilution of one part in 10,400).
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During the 21 days of treatment, treated participants showed significant reduction in body weight and increase in muscle mass compared to those given placebo. Participants also reported relative improvements in general health, including sleep quality, energy, vision, and skin texture.

However, there is one odd feature of this study: the homeopathic treatment, apparently, produced precisely the same effects as the substance from which it was made. This appears inconsistent with the usual expectations regarding homeopathy—that a diluted and potentized treatment should produce the opposite effects of the original substance, not the same effects.

Traditional Homeopathic Treatments for Improving General Health and Well-being

It is part and parcel of the theory behind
classical homeopathy
that use of properly chosen homeopathic remedies can improve overall health. These remedies are chosen based on personal constitution, and are generally varied over time as various “levels” of health are uncovered.

Other Natural Options

For herbs, supplements, and other alternative treatments that may be useful for improving general health, see the
Nutritional Support
article.

For a thorough explanation of homeopathy, including dilution of therapies, see the
Homeopathy Overview
.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.